Be frugal with
everything you do.
- Save your electricity, don't run anything unless you must (even nav lights
). Don't run instruments or gear you don't need at the time.
- Save your water, don't use any fresh unless you must (definitely don't flush the head with it
).
- Save your fuel, don't run your engine unless you have to. Sail even if it's at 2 knots.
- Eat ALL the fish you catch even if it means eating the same meal 3 days in a row.
- Take your sails down in a storm, don't risk damage.
- Scrub the bottom by hand regularly if it needs it.
- Row the dink ashore unless you really need an outboard to run (far, wind, current).
- Convert you gas barbie. Burn driftwood, not bought fuel. Cook on it often, it's free.
- Buy rechargable batteries and a cheap solar charger (AA, AAA, etc).
- Buy lots when you find bargains, especially groceries. Learn to enjoy pasta if you don't already.
- When you bake your own bread do as many loaves as you can manage at one time (costs money to heat the oven from cold).
- Take only what you will consume when you visit other boats (but try not to be a mooch
). Don't be embarrased to take your "excess" stuff home again.
- Try and charge strangers for knowledge/assistance/labour. Let them know up front.
- Have boat clothes and shore clothes, don't wear out your good stuff while you're at sea.
- Don't pay Baksheesh (bribes) to anyone. Let them know up front too. If they won't help you without a bribe, find someone else.
- Trade if you can, don't always just buy.
If you can get into the saving habit, you will be amazed at how much you can get away with as far as cost-of-living expenses go.
Most important, lower your standard. Don't expect the things you have become accustomed to ashore. They'll just cost you lots of money.